Vernon County, Wisconsin - Biographical sketches (4 of 6 so headed), 1884 (part 2 of 2)

J. Booth McClurg was born Jan. 22, 18.3.5, in Cohimbiana Co., Ponii. When six years of age his ])arents moved to Oliio, locating in Guernse}' count}', where they lived six or seven years, then removed to that part of Morgan now known as Nobles county. In 185.3 he started for California, going by way of the Isthmus. He engaged for a year in mining at Nevada City. He then went to Shelby Flat, made a claim and worked there for a short time, then started out on an exploring tour, traveling in Washington, Oregon and Idaho territories, making claims and living in different places. The winterof 1861-2 he spent in Florence City, Idaiii). It was a severe winter, and provisions were scarce, as means of transportation were limited. Flour sold at $13 per pound, sugar $5 |ier jiound, and tobacco $10 per pound. In the spring of 1862 Mr. McClurg determined to return to his old home in Ohio and visit his ])arents, from whom he had not heard for eight years. On board the vessel at San Francisco, while engaged in conversation with a gentle man from Wisconsin, he learned that hi^ parents were living near Viroqua town, Ver non county, that State. He accordingly went to Viroqua instead of Ohio. In 1863 he cam( to Sterling town and purchased an iraproved farm on section 1, town 11 north, range 6 west. In the spring of 1864 he bought a farm on section 11, same town, on which he lived but a few months. He then purchased his present home, on section 2, on which he has erected a good frame house and barn. Mr. McClurg was married in 1863 to Annis, daughter of Eliab and Eliza (Higgins) Bishop. They have had nine children - Inez I., Reno, Mabel and Maud (twins), Leo, Cyrus, Jennie, John Philip and Walter R.

Prominent among the German settlers of Sterling is John Shoenberger. His first settlemi-nt in Wisconsin was made in Crawford county, in 18.t4. He then bought an improved farm near Prairie du Chien, and lived there until 1863, when he came to Sterling and bought his present farm, on the northwest quarter of section 8. He was born in Hesse-Cassel, Jan. 9, 1818. He spent his younger days in school and qualified for a teacher. He engaged in teaching in 1839. He also performed the duties of organist in the church, a duty that devolved on teachers in that country. He continued teaching until 1854, when he left his native land and came to America. He landed at the port of New York, and came direct to Wisconsin and located in Crawford county, and from thence to Sterling town. He was married in 1838 to Annie C. Croll, who was also a native of Hesse-Cassel. Eight children blessed this union - Henry W., Mary, Kate, Annie, Otto, Dorotha, Charles and Louis C. Otto is dead.

Solfest Otteson is a native of Norway, born April 1, 1837. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. When nineteen vears of age he emigrated to the United States, lie landed at Quebec, and came directly to Oane Co., Wis., where he was employed on a fniii. He remained there until 1864, when he came to Sterling town, purchasing wild land on section 24, town 12, range 6. He has since improved a portion of the land, and erected a house and barn. He has also purchased more land, now having 320 acres. Mr. Otteson was married in 1863 to Christina Severson. They iiave seven children - Christina,-Otto, Mary A., Severena, Jacob L., Kiah and Julia. Christina, the eldest, is teaching in the public schools of Vernon county.

William Getter was born Dec. 20, 1847, in Schoharie Co., N. Y. When seven years of age his parents came to Wisconsin, settling in Sterling town, Vernon county. Here William spent his younger days in school and on the farm. He enlisted in February, 1865, in company B, 50th Wisconsin Volunteers, and went to the western frontier. He was honorably discharged ill June, 1866, and rettirning home settled on bis present farm. It is situated on high table land, on section 28, town 12, range 5. Part of this land he pre-empted and a part he bought. It is in a good state of cultivation and has on it a neat frame house. He has recently purchased more land, and now has 360 acres. Mr. Getter was married in 1868 to Mary Robson. Six children blessed this union - Albert, George, Robert, Willard, Bina and Howard. Robert died in infancy.

James B. Gilman was a native of Vermont and came to Bad Ax county in 1852. He was born in 179*7 and when quite young was apprenticed to a carpenter and joiner to learn that trade. He worked at it for five years, then spent five years in learning the wagon-maker's trade. Resolving to still better his prospects for future employment, he served a three years' apprenticeship at millwrlgliting. About this time the United States and Canada were quarreling over the boundary line question and Mr. Gilman enlisted in the service of his country and was mustered in as major. The epaulettes which he wore are still in the possession of his daughter. He removed from Vermont to Illinois, and was one of the first to mine for lead at Galena. He remained there until 1852, when he came to Bad Ax county and made a settlement on section 21 and 22, town 12 north, range 5 west. In 1854 he erected a saw mill and lived there until 1863, when he sold his property and removed to Viroqlia town, where he bought a farm-. He resided on the farm until his death, which occurred in 1865. Mr. Oilman married Emily Twitchall, a native of Virginia, who died in 1858, leaving five children. One son, James W., was born in Calhoun Co., 111., in 1839. He there attended the district schools and worked with his father at the carpenter and wagon trade. He came to NVisconsin with his parents nd in 1801 purchased a farm one mile west of Viroqua and engaged in farming. In 1862 he enlisted in company A, 25th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, and served nine montiis, mostly on frontier duty. He was discharged for disability and returned to Viroqua, where he opened a wagon shop. In 1867 he sold his shop and stock and bought land on section 21 and 22, of town 12 north, of range 5 west, the farm lying in both Franklin and Stei'ling towns. He was married that same year to Harriet Lamb, also a native of Illinois. Tiiey have six living children - Flattie Belle, Lurinda May, Willie Burton, Maud, Walter and Mary Candis.

Hiram Bellows, the genial proprietor of the West Prairie Hotel, is a native of the old "Bay State." He was born at Blackstone, Mass., Dec. 6, 1830, and when quite young accompanied his parents to Rhode Island, and eight years later to Oswego Co., N. Y. He there remained until seventeen years of age, when he returned to Rhode Island and obtained employment as bridge carpenter on the Providence & Worcester Railroad, working for that company two years. He was subsequently engaged in various occupations at the following named localities : bridge carpenter on the railroad, in New Hampshire, one year ; teaming at Nassua, two years ; in employ of Worcester and Kassua Railway Company, four years ; baggage master, four years, and conductor, seven yeari?, for Boston & L )well railroad; four years as conductor on Galesburg & (Juincy branch of the C. B. & Q., in Illinois; one year as conductor between North Platte, Neb., and Cheyenne, W. T., on the Union Pacific road, and from 1865 to 1868, again in the employ of the C. B. & Q. Railway Company. In 1865 Mr. Bellows had come to Vern n county and purchased land on "West Prairie," on section 17, of town 11 north, of range 5 west, and section 36, of town 12 north, of range 5 west. In 1868 he settled on the former named piece of land, and has since been engaged in farming. At the present time he is extensively eng.iged in the raising of fat stock. In November, 1877, Mr. Bellows rejiaired his residence, made quite an addition to it and hung out the sigti of the "West Prairie Hotel." His long experience with travelers as conductor, and liajipy disposition, together with the pleasant and sociable character of his wife, render his hostlery one of the best in western Wisconsin, and a most popular stopping place for the best class of travelers. Mr. Bellows has been twice married. His first marriage was in December, 1853, to Augusta D. Chase, of Merimac Co., N. H. One child blessed this union - Ida. His second and present wife was Addie A., daughter of Alfred and Mary (Blodgett) Proctor, born in Saugus, Essex Co., Mass. They have one son, Elmer. Mr. Bellows is also postmaster at West Prairie.

Charles S. Fourt, superintendent of the Disciples Church Sunday school, was born Dec. 25, 1832, In Henry Co., Ind., being there raised to agricultural pursuits. In 1853 he emigrated to Iowa, becomiTig a pioneer in Allamakee county, where he entered land on section 12, Paint Creek township,breaking forty acres and build ing a log house thereon. In 1859 he sold this fiu-ra and purchased land on section 16, town

10, range 6, Crawford Co., Wis. He cultivated this farm and built a frame house, residing thei'e until 1869. He then came to Sterling town and purchased land on section 14, town

11, range 6. In 18';6 he bought his present home on section 11, this town, on which, in 188^, he built a neat frame house. Mr. Fourt has been twice married. His first wife was Hannah Valentine, a native of Manchester, England, born Feb. 28, 1836. She died April 9, 1876, leaving seven children - Lavinia, Edwin and Edgar, twins; Ida E., Franklin, Minnie M. and Lucinda T. In October, 1876, he married Hannah Davis, born in Sullivan Co., Iiid. :vir. Fourt has been for some time an elder in the Disciples' Church.

Belus Shepherd Abrams settled on his present farm in the spring of 1870. He was born in ("uyiiga Co., >.'. Y., June 5, 1821. He remained there until eighteen years of age, when he I'cmoved to Wayne county, in his native State, and engaged in farming, remaining, thwu until 1856, when he came west to Wisconsin, and entered land in town 12 north, of range 5 west, now in the town of Sterling. Mr. Abrams now owns 200 acres of land, 100 of which are fairly improved, and the other half is in pasture and timber land. He was married, in 1S63, to Fannie, widowed wife of Leland Brown, who was a soldier in the late war, and died while in the service. Of late years, Mr. Abrams has rented his land, and a portion of the time has made his home at Boscobel, Grant Co., Wis. Before marriage he was unsettled, and spent a large portion of I'is time traveling.

J. S. Dustin settled on his. present farm in 1870. He was born at Bethel, Maine, Aug. 6, 1834. He passed his early life amid rural scenes, and received his elementary education in the district school. When a young man, he learned the carpenter and ioiners trade, at which he worked in Maine and New Hampshire until 1862. In that year he came to Wisconsin, and 1863", located at Eau Claire, where he was engaged in the lumber trade until his removal to Vernon county. He settled on his present farm, which is located on section 3, town 11 north, of range 6 west. Mr. Dustin was united in marriage, in June, 1868, to Sarah Cole, of Orleans Co., Vt. They are the happy parents of two children - Frank and Albert.

John Wesley Cade was born April 19, 1847, in St. Joseph Co., Mich. He came to Wisconsin with his parents in 1853, making his home with them' until eighteen years of age. He then returned to Michigan, attending school four years at Stui-gis, fitting himself for a teacher, teaching one term there, returning to Vernon county, where he engaged in farming in the summer seasons and teaching in the winter, a practice which ho still continues. In the fall of 1871 he came to Sterling town, renting a farm for one year. In the fall of 1872 the house where he lived was blown down by a cyclone; he bought a farm situated on section 5, town 11, range 5, where he has since made his home. His residence was burned June 13, 1883, with most of the contents. He was mar- ried in 1871 to Electa I. Cass, born in Lorignal, Province of Ontario. Tliey have had four children - Stell,Roscoe, Rockliii (who died in 1878), and Orpheus Blaine. Mr. Cade has been prominent in town affairs, and has filled offices of trust in the town.

Ole Gauper, postmaster at Purdy, was born in Norway, Aug. 29, 1851. When he was but eleven years of age, his parents emigrated to America. They first stopped in Madison, Wis.. until the spring of 1868, then went to Black Earth town, in Dane county, where they remained until 1855, then came to Vernon county and located at Chaseburg. He made his home with his parents until he was fifteen years of age, then started in life for himself. He went to DeSoto and was there employed in a sawmill four years. After that he attended school two winters. He was married in 1872 to Amelia, daughter of Ove and Elizabeth Liiid, a teacher in the public schools of this county. He purchased land on sections 10,11 and 14, of town 12 north, of range 6 west. He built a house on section 10 and lived there until 1878, wlien he removed to section 12 and lived there until 1883, when he bought the old stand at Purdy, located on section 13, and now makes this his home. He was appointed postmaster in 1883. He is also iustice of the peace. Mr. and Mrs. <xauper have three children - Robert Oscar, Elida and Alfred.

Cyrus Hunt, one of the early settlers of Vernon county, was born in the village of Monroeville, Huron Co., Ohio, Oct. 12, 18-30, and where he grew to manhood. He received his education in the district school, supplemented with six month study under the private tuition of A. H. S aw, at Milan, Erie Co., Ohio. In 1847 he went to Iowa and located in Linn county, and there engaged to learn the coopers' trade. He was also engaged in teaching. In 1854 lie came to Wisconsin and entered land, as before stated. He returned to Linn county and there spent the winter of 1854-55. Returning to his land in the spring of 1856, he commenced making improvements, and also worked at his trade as cooper. In 1866 he traded his farm for another farm on section 17, of the same town, and lived there two years; then rented the farm and removed to DeSoto. He there worked at his trade some of the time. He also served as justice of the peace. He remained there until 1873, when he sold his farm and purchased land on section 2, of town 11 north, of range 6 west, in territory included in Sterting town. He has since bought adjoining land, built a frame house and now makes this his home. He has paid considerable attention to fruit and has enjoyed as good success as any one in this section. He now owns an orchard of about 300 trees. He was married in 1862 to Elizabeth Asbury, a native of Madison Co., Ark. They have eight children - Richard R., Joseph M., Cyrus, Carrie, Almon, Ida P., Bertha and Ella. Mr. Hunt has been prominent in town affairs. He was appointed justice of the peace a few days after coming into the town, and has been elected to that oftice each succeeding year. He has also served as town clerk.

Thomas Minor was born in Monterey, Berkshire Co., Mass., Feb. 28, 1815. He was married in April, 1839, to Laura Brewer, also born in Monterey. In 1873 Mr. Minor came to Vernon county, purchasing land on section 14, town 11, range 6, Sterling town, and also on section 24, Freeman town, Crawford county. He settled on section 14, and still makes that his home. Mr. and Mr. Minor had nine children, five of whom are living - John H., William IL, Watson W., Helen and Charles. Mrs. Minor died July 10, 1870.

John H. Minor, eldest son of Thomas and Laura (Brewer) Minor, was born in Monterey, Berkshire Co., Mass., July 10, 1840. He received his early education in the district school, completing it at Williams Academy, in Stockbridge. After leaving school he engaged in farming and carpentering in Monterey. In 1872 he came to Wisconsin, and purchased the farm on section 14, town 11, range 6, formerly owned by Reuben Jordan, and which he still occupies. He was married in 1860, to Eliza beth Maine, born in Bark Hampstead, Conn. The}' have had six children - Edson, Mariana, Clarence, Bernice, Francis and Johnnie. Mr. Minor has taken a prominent part in town airs. He is a member of the town board.

Watson W., the third son of Thomas and Laura (Brewer) Minor, was born Jan. 21, 1851, in Monterey, Mass. He was reared on a farm, receiving his education in the district school. He came to Sterling town, Vernon Co, Wis , in 1871, purchasing land on sections 13 and l-t, town 11, range 6. In 1876 he bought an improved farm of Clarence Bishop, situated 0,1 the southwest quarter of section 14. He makes this his home. He was married, Jan. 16, 1875, to JMartha C. Engie. They have three children - Hatlie, Wallace and Charlie. In 1879 he went into a blacksmith shop at Retreat, to learn the trade. In 1880 he built a shop at his home, where he now carries on the blacksmith trade in connection with farming.

'ihe other two sons, William H. and C harles, live in Berkshire Co., Mass. The only daughter, Helen, married Deacon Phelps, and resides in Stockbridge.

Arnt Westrum, assessor of Sterling town, was born June 6, 1846, in Norway. He received his education in the common schools, and in the High school. When seventeen years of age he entered the agricultural school, which school he attended two years. In 1 86G he emigrated to the United States. He first went to Minnesota, spending six months in Spring Grove. He then went to La Crosse, engaging there in teaming. In March, 1875, he came to Vernon Co., Wis., trading city property for a farm, situated on sections 26 and 35, town 12, range 6, Sterling town. He now makes this his home. In 1868 Mr. Westrum was married to Christina Everson. They have four children-^lena, Ovedia, Clara and Adolph. Mr. Westrum is well fitted for the position which he occupies. He is now serving his fourth term as assessor, having been first elected in April, 1879.

Arne J. Bolstad settled in Sterling town in 1876. He first bought forty acres of land on section 27, town 12, range 6, and on this Bniall piece of land commenced farming. By industry and good management he has prospered, and his farm now contains 180 acres. Mr. Bolstad is a native of Norway, born Dec. 17, 1846. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. In 1867 he came to the United States, first locating in Madison, Wis. After stopping there a short time, he came to Vernon county, being employed in farming in Franklin town until 1875. He then went to the Iilack river, following lumbering and farming one year, then came to Sterling, as before stated. He was married in 1875 to Bertha Everson. Four children have blessed this union - Ellen Helena, Maria, John J. and Henry E.

P. Melvin Peck, one of the proprietors of the Grand Forks flouring mill, was born in Wayne Co., Penn., July 24, 1844. His younger days were spent in school and on the farm. In 1864 he came to Wisconsin and located in Crawford county, where he engaged with his brother-inlaw as a millwright. He worked in Wisconsin eight or ten years, then went to Minnesota. He built the Peterson mill in Fillmore county, and svorked on all the principal mills on the Root river. He remained in Minnesota five years. In 1879 he came to the Bad Ax valley, and in company with his brothers-inlaw, Mullikins and Morse, erected the Grand Forks flouring mill, which he is running at the present time. He was married, in 1875, to Henrietta Buckmaster, of Ohio. They have one child - Le Ross.

The Town Of Union

Congressional township 13, range 1 west, is wliat is known as the town of Union. It is bounded on the north by the town of Forest, on the east by the town of Greenwood, on tlie sontli by Richland county and on the west by the town of Stark. The surface in some parts of the town is very rough and broken, while in others it is quite level. There is a large amount of timber distributed over the surface of this town, some of the best lands in the town had not been cleared up, even as late as 1884. The western part of the town is watered by Warner creek and its branches. The southern part by 15ear and the south by Pine river, which takes its rise in the town. In 18s4 this was strictly a rural town, which contained neither a postoffice or store.

James Cooper kept a store on section 2, on the old State road, at a very early day ; and William Dixon kept a stock of goods at his house on section 10, as did J. B. Eastman on section 12. In early times there was a large amount of ginseng root gathered and sold to distant markets, which brought from fifty cents to a dollar per pound, when dry.

First Settlers

-James Cooper, who settled on section 2, in 1^49, w.as the first settler within the town of Union. He remained there until 1881, and niovool to Hillsborough, where he died in 188.3.

The next to locate in the town was Hiram Heath, who came in sometime during 1854, and settled on section 31, where he remained four years and then removed to Black River Falls.

The first Bohemians which settled in the town, came in 1855, direct from their native country. Joseph Urban and Anton .'^lama, together with Albert Johnechick and J. Barta. Slama settled on section 36, where he died in

1883. Barta remained on section 25 a few years and removed to Dakota. Urban located on section 36, and Johnechick on section 25, where they lived in 1884.

The following came in during 1855: Henry Widner, a native of Indiana, came early in the spring and located on section 7. A year later he sold to Wilson Thing, and settled in Forest town, where he remained a year, then returned to Union and settled on section 8. He enlisted in the Union army and died while in the service of his country. In 1880 his family were living in Iowa.

Charles D. Holbrook came from Michigan in the summer of 1855 and purchased the norili half of the northeast quarter of section 2, where he died five years later and was buried on his farm. His widow returned to Michigan three years after the death of her husband.

Settlers came in more rapidly in 1856 than they had in any previous year. Among the number who came in for actual settlement were: William Outland, Moses Marshall, John B.

William Oiitland, came from Ohio, in the tall of the year and settled on section 27, where he tilled the soil until the breaking out of the Rebellion, when he responded to the call of his country, enlisted and served through the war. After his return from the service, lie moved to Richland county and there built a saw mill on Mill creek. A few years later, he sold and moved to Nebraska, where he was engaged at herding cattle on the plains. He finally was found dead in his cabin. He was a man of good character, possessed a fair education and made many friends where ever he lived.

John Searing, a native of New l''ork, came in the spring of 1856, and settled on section 10, where he died after a few years ot pioneer life.

Ebenezer S. Eastman, a native of New Hampshire, came in the fall of 1856, and settled on section 1, where he remained a few years then moved over into the town of Forest, where he died in 1880.

Charles Alberson, a nativeof England, moved from Whitestown, Conn., and entered the southwest quarter of the southeast quarter of section 3, and the northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of section 10. He died in 1866, when his family moved to Fort Wayne, Ind.

George Jepson, a native of England, bought the northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of section 1. He afterward engaged in trade with James Cooper. In 1860 he went to Hillsborough and engaged in trade alone, and a few years later was burned out. He died previous . to 187f>.

Robert Milligan was one of the early settlers in the town of-Union. He was a native of Belmont Co., Ohio, bora in ISQO, and there grew to manhood. He was married in 1856 to Mary Scott, who was born in Chester Co., Penn., in 1805. They remained in Belmont county until 1840, then removed to Missouri and settled in Platte county. Mr. Milligan there bought lan.l and engaged in farming and also at worked at the carpenter's trade. He framed the court house at Platte City. In 1847 he returned to Belmont county and remained there until 1856, when he came to Wisconsin and settled in town 1 1 north, of range I west, now known as the town of Union. He purchased land on section 31 and . commenced to clear a farm. He was a loyal man and watched with interest the struggle during the war of the Rebellion. During the dark days of 1864 he became so fired with zeal that he could no longer restrain himself and at the advanced age of sixty-four enlisted with the 100 days men and went to the front, serving until the expiration of his term, when he started on his return home. He was taken sick on the way and died at the National Soldiers' Home in Milwaukee, Oct. 3, 1864. His widow survived him and occupied the homestead until the time her death, which occurred March 3, 1882. Mr. and Mrs. Milligan were the parents of eight children, four of whom are now living - Eliza J., wife of Otho Douglass and residing in Belmont Co, Ohio; Sarah R.. wife of Mathias Groves; Angeline S., wife of Hugh Kerr, and Mary A., wife of James C. Reeve, of Nuckolls, Neb.

Joseph iMcCoy, a native of Pennsylvania, came from Butler county in the spring of 1857, and settled on section 10. He was killed in the Union army in February, 1865.

E<iward Harris, a colored man who h.ad been a slave in Tennessee, came to the town of Union soon after the war and purchased half of the northwest quarter of section 2. It is related of this negro that he was very industrious and also quite ingenious. \\ hile a slave he earned money nights making bracelets, and at the earliest opportunity he left his master and came north. He was with the Union army as cook about two years. At the time of tlie election in 1868 lie was getting ready to move to Canada as he expected, in case Seymour and Blair, democratic candidates for President anil Vice-President, were elected, to be returned to slavery. Like others of his race he was veiy superstitious. He was an excellent farmer and had the respect of all his neighbors. His first wife and children were taken from him and sold, and a son of his second wife was living in 1884 on the homestead in this town, where his father died.

Kaely Kvents

As early a death as there is any record of, was William Joseph, son of Joseph and Elizabeth (iretty, who died Jan. 3, 1861. I lis was the first remains buried in the Newburn cemetery.

Among the earliest births in the town weie Adela, daughter of William and Rebecca Oulland, in the vrinter of 1856-7, and Joseph F., son of Archibald and Harriet (Wear) Calaway, born Sept. 6, 1857.

The tow'n of Union was organized at a meeting held April 10, 1856, at the house of Joseph Deans, when the following officers were elected: Joseph Newburn, (chairman), Elliot Benson and Herman Heath, supervisors; Horace H. Ripley, clerk; Joshua W. Osgood, treasurer; Thomas De Jean, assessor; Richai-d Glenan, superintendent of schools; Hiram Heath, George Walts and Thomas De Jean, justices of the peace; William Shidt, Adam Bryan and John H. Russel, constables.

Officers of 1883; Samuel Bauman, (chairman), P. S. Steinman and Frank Johneschiek, supervisors; Robert Butcher, town clerk; Frank Crouse, treasurer; Jonathan Cry, assessor; Adam Crouse and J. N. Poorman, justices of the peace.

The first school in the town of Union was taught in 1857, in a log building erected by the neighbors on section 30. This school was taught by Isaac Outland and was in what was afterward known as district No. 1. This building was used as a school house for about two years, when another was erected on another part of the same section, in which Charles Searing was the first teacher. In 1872 a neat frame house was built to take the place of the rude log houses which served in pioneer times. Mary S. West was the first teacher in this frame building.

In what is now known as district No. 2, which was organized in 1859, a log school house was built on the southeast quarter of section 3. Miranda Markee was the first teacher in this district. In 1870 a new building was provided, which was located on the northwest quarter of section 12. Moses Brown was the first teacher.

1866, located on the southeast quarter of section 28. Amanda Smitli was the iiist teacher em- [jloyed in this district. This school liouse was still in use in 1884.

The scliool house in joint district No. .5 was built in IHiJS or |S69; it was a log house on the noi'thwest quarter of the southwest quarter of section IT. Ellen Marshall was the first te.acher. A frame building was erected in 1880, on section 17, in which Maggie A. King taught the first term of sckool.

'I^he Wesleyan .Methodists organized a class at the school house on section 3, in 1862. Rev. John Markee and Alpheus Bray were the first preachers. Among others John B. Eastman and Joseph McCoy and their wives were members of this class; tiie former was chosen class leader. The following preachers have sei-ved this church: Rev's. Markee, Bray, Alonzo Atwood, Josephus Good, Wiliam Mulleinx and Townsend, who proved to be an imposter.

Tlie Roman Catholics held their first mass in tliis town in the school house soon after it was built. Father Joseph Hyneck was tlie first priest. In 187.3 they erected a church, located near the school house. Father Martin Bui in was priest at the time the church was in course of erection. In 188-t Father Anton Slama was serving the Church.

The United Brethren held services in the school house on section 17 in 1876. Adam Shanbough was the first preacher; he organized a class that year, consisting of twelve n\embers: James McKitrick and wife, Myron Van Deausen and wife, John Van Deausen and wife, Rebecca and Amanda Harness. James McKitrick was steward and class leader. The following are among the number of preachers employed: Rev. D. K. Young, Rev. Pound, Rev. Charles Hibbard, Rev. William Smith and Rev. E. Casper.

The first religious services in the southwestern part of tlie town were held in the log school house on section 30 by John Crandall, a Baptist minister who organized a society of twenty members, who worshipped in the new log school house. A branch of this society liave a church in the town of Stark.

Discontinued Postoffices

What was known as Muncie postoftice was established in 1862. Jacob N. Poornian was appointed postmaster and kept the oftice at his house. It was on the mail route froraTomah to Orion. Mr. Poorman resigned in 1870 and the otfice was then discontinued. A year later Robert Robinson was appointed postmaster and held the office at his place on section 27. He was succeeded by Isaac Smith.

Goole postoftice was established in 1^57. J. C. Cooper was appointed as postmaster and kept the oftice at his place on section 3. He was succeeded during the war by D. C. Bui dick, who lived on section 12. J. B. Eastman succeeded liim. The oflice was finally removed to the town of Forest.

The first cemetery of the town is the one situated on section 30, known the Newburn Cemetery. Another burying place is located on section 32 at the "cross roads."

Sketches Of Peosiinent Citizens

Robert Butcher was one of the pioneers of Union town. He was born in Lancastershire, Elngland, in 1829. When twelve years of age, liis parents left their native land for America, and made a settlement in Carroll Co., Ohio. There the father bought a piece of timber land, and Robert assisted him in converting it into a good farm. In 1855 he married Fi-ances Marshall, and in the fall of 1856, leaded up their household ett'ects and shipped by rail to Lone Rock, Wis. Mrs. Butcher, being weakly, took the cars for Lone Rock, Wis. Mr. Butcher, Moses Marshall and family came through with a two horse team, driving some stock before them. They were thirty days making the trip from Carroll county lo Bad Ax Co., Wis. They settled on xection o, of town 13 north, of range 1 west, on land that had been entered the year previous. Mr. Butcher immediately built a log house, 16x18 feet in dimensions, in which the family lived several j^ears. He has improved his farm, and taken an active interest in town affairs. He has served as chairmm of the board of town trustees, town treasurer, and at pres lit is town clerk, a position to which he has been elected for ten .successive terras. Mr. and Mrs. Butcher have been bles^sed with eiglit cliildren, seven livi g - Joseph M., Elizabctli P., Isaiah M., Joim J., Henry S., Katie and Charles G. and Mary M. Elizabeth, the eldest daugliter, was married to William McFarland, and died when twenty-five years of age.

William Di.xon first visited this county in 18o5, and made a permanent .settlement in Union town, in 1856. He was born in England, Aug. 7, 1817. His parents were of Scotch nativity, and had lived in England but a short time. In 1828 they emigrated to America and settled in Oneida Co., N. Y., where William grew to manhood. At the age of seventeen he was apprenticed to a blacksmith to learn the trade, and served four and one-half years. Aftei' working as a "jour" for a short time, he went to Troy, N. Y and opened a machine shop, which he operated two years. After two years at his trade in Fultonville, Montgomery county, he went to Waterville, Oneida county, and there bought town property. Failing health induceil him to seek a new climate, and in 1855 he visited Wisconsin. Being well pleased with the county of Vernon, he entered land in town 13 north, of range 1 west, now known as Union town. He returned to New York and .spent the winter, coming out again in the spring of 1856. A year and a half later he went back to New York, this time to dispose of property there. He returned in the spring of 185!), and in September of that year was joined by his wife, who had traveled the entire distance alone. They settled on section 3, where they liave since resided. Mr. Dixon has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, principally, but for some years kept a stock of goods at his house, and supplied the early settlers wiili the necessities of life. He was married at Waterford, Saratoga Co., N. Y., Sept. 7, 1848, to Miranda Clapper, a native of Kinderhook, Columbia Co., N. Y. They are the parents of two children - Jessie and Seward.

.John B. Eastman was one of the pioneers of Vernon county. He was born among the rock ribbed hills of New Hampshire, Feb. 6, 1824. When six years of age, lie accompanied his father's family to Vermont, settling at Norwich, where John was reared and educated. When nineteen years of age, be went to Lowell, Mass., and was there employed as a watchman on the Merrimac corporation for two years. Four years later, he went to Clintonville, now Clinton, Mass., and secured a like situation, which he held about two years. He then suffered a lameness in the foot, and was disabled from work until 1850. In that year, he returned to Vermont on a visit, and again coming to Lowell,' open a variety store. He continued this for two years, then gave the charge of the store to his wife, who had been his assistant, and embarked in the restaurant business". He disposed of his stock in the fall of 1855, and started west to find a new location for a home. He stopped a short time with an aunt in Green Co., Wis., and from there, his uncle accompanied him to Bad Ax, (now Vernon) county, where he bought land on sections 1 and 12, in what is now the town of Union. He then returned to Massachusetts, and April 4, 1856, started with his family for their new home. He arrived at Albany, Green Co., Wis., on ihe 11th day of April, and sometime in May, his brother, Ebenezer, and family, arrived from New York. In June the two brothers visited their new location, and built a log cabin 12x14 feet in size and covered with bark. They then returned to Green county, and remained there until in September. The last of that month the two brothers and their families started for the new borne, and arrived the first day in October. They stopped over night with J. C. Cooper, and in the morning removed their household goods to their own cabin. A few nights after it commenced to rain very hanl, and the water poured down inside as well as out. Mr. Eislman held an umbrella over the children; about this time a voice, calling for admittance, was heard above the storm. Its owner was admitted and proved to be George Jepson. The storm lasted the entire night, and the new-comer was forced to stand upright under a piece-of bark during the long hours till the dawn. The entire assemblage were very damp the ne.xt day, but the sun came out, and with the wind as an assistant, soon dried their clothes, and no sickness or evil effects followed this long to be remembered drenching. Mr. Eastman commenced to build a house for himself as soon as possible, and moved his family into it on the 19th of November. On that same day snow commenced falling, and ui the morning the ground was covered with a mantle of white, two feet in depth. Before this disappeared, other snows followed, and through the winter measured five feet in depth, not entirely disappearing until spiing. The new-comers passed their first winter in the rude structure of logs, and tried to be happy and contented. When spring opened, John B. commenced clearing his land, which was heavily timbered, aii<l finally succeeded, by hard and unceasing toil, in improving a fine farm. The family resided in their first log house until 1875, when he erected the present frame residence. In early life, Mr. Eastman kept a stock of goods at his house, and carried on quite a trade with the earlier settlers. He was elected town clerk, trustee, justice of the peace, and filled various other offices. He died Aug. 21, 1!?76, leaving a large circle of acquaintances toniourn his death. One son, George H., was born in Southboro, Mass., March 21, 1850. He has ahvays resided with his'parents, receiving his education in the district school. He was joined in marriage, Oct. 28, 1S74, to Martha, daughter of Rev. John and Permelia (Davidson) Markee. Four children have blessed tiiis union - Miranda, Grace, Permelia and Edith. .Mr. Eastman oecui)ies the old homestead in company with his mother. On Jan. 2ii, 1869, John B. Eastman took a boy to raise. He was Samuel D. Lowman, aged two and a half years, and during his stay in the family has proven to be good, honest and steady in whatever he has done. He is now attending school at Ontirio.

Hugh Kerr is one of the pioneers of Union town and a prominent farmer of this section of Vernon county. He is of Scotch descent, but was born in county Antrim, Ireland, April 15, 1827. He was there I'aised to agricultural pursuits, receiving only a moderate education. When twenty-two years of age he came to America and stopped for a few months at Smith's Falls in the province of Ontario. From there he went to Belmont Co., Ohio, where he was joined in marriage, in 1853, to Angeline S., daughter of Robert and Mary (Scott) Milligan. That same fall they went to West Virginia and spent one year. They then returned to Ohio, and in 1857 came to Vernon county. Mr. Kerr purchased a tract of timber land on section .31, town 13 north, of range 1 west, now known as the town of Union. There were three acres of this land partially cleared, in the center of which was a small log cabin. The year following Mr. Kerr built a hewed log house, in which the family lived until 1874, when he erected his present commodious frame residence. His farm now comprises 218 acres, 100 of which are under good cultivation, and the entire farm is considered one of the best in the town. Mr. Kerr is a man well read and thoroughly posted on all questions of the d:>y, and highly respected by a large circle of acquaintances. Himself and wife are the parents of four children - Eliza J., wife of Harvey J. Eastman ; Robert A., a graduate of Rush Medical College, of Chicago, and now practicing medicine at Peoria, III. ; John J. and Homer I.

T. S. Jordan, one of the early settlers of Union town, is a native of Indiana, born near Richmond, Wayne county, in December, 1827. Hi.s father, James Jordan, was a native of Pennsylvania, his mother, of Tennessee. In 1833, at about the time of the well remembered "Indian scare," they removed to Illinois and located at Reed's Grove, where the settlers found it necessary to work under protection of a strong guard. James Jordan attended the first land sale at the then small village of Chicago, and entered the present site of the city of Joliet. After three years in his new liome, he sold his property and returned to Indiana, that his children might enjoy better educational facilities. He located at Blountsville, Henry county, erected a hotel and also engaged in mercantile pursuits. Three years later he went to Greenville, Delaware county, in tlie "Hoosier State," and was landlord of a hotel for one year ; then purchased and cleared a farm in Well's county. He finally removed to Leesburg, Kosciusko county, where he bought town property and where his wife died in 1844. After the death of his mother, T. S. commenced life for himself. He readily secured employment as a farm laborer in Delaware county and was there married, in 1848, to Martha J. Babb, a native of Clinton Co., Ohio. He resided in Delaware county ten years after his marriage, and in 1858 removed to Bad Ax (now Vernon) county and bought land on section 28, of town 13 north, of range 1 west. The family lived in their "moving wagons" until a cabin was erected, in which they resided until 1879, at which date Mr. Jordan erected a comfortable frame dwelling house. He has cleared a larger proportion of his first purchase and has added to it until he now owns 160 acres. In September, 1864, he enlisted in company I, 12th regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers ; joined Sherman's army at Atlanta, Ga., and participated in the march to the sea, and northward through the Carolinas. He was honorably discharged May 31, 1865, and returning home, resumed his farming operations. Mr. Jordan has been prominent in town affairs. He was elected superintendent of schools in 1860, and was chairman of the board of town trustees for ten successive years. In 1876 he was the elected choice of the people for the State Legislative Assembly, and served one term. Mr- and Mrs. Jordan have four children - Wesley S., Ann Eliza, LeRoy and Clara Bell. A brother of Mr. Jordon, James M., was born in Madison Co., Ind., in May, 1830. He was but fourteen years of age when his mother died. He then started out for himself. He was employed in farming in the States of Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. He was joined in marriage, in December, 1851, to Mary Ann Babb, who was born in Clinton Co., Ohio. They settled in Delaware Co., Ind. In 1854, in company with his brother, T. S., he came to Wisconsin and visited Bad Ax county, but made no claim. He returned to Indiana and remained in Delaware county until 1858, when he came in company with his brother and bought land on section 28, of town 13 north, of range 1 west. lie first built a log cabin, 19x21 feet in size, with a stone chimney at the end (southern style). As they had no stove, his wife cooked their food in the fire place for five years. They lived in a log house about five years, then built a frame house, in which they now reside. They have five children - Alpheus T., Timothy S., Emory G., Joseph C. and Lydia B. Their son, Oliver B., was born July 10, 1854, and died in Minnesota in December, 1878. David B. died in infancy. Mr. Jordon has been a successful farmer. He has added to his possessions by buying laud adjoining, and now has 160 acres in a body, which was formerly heavily timbered, but a great portion of which is now in a good state of cultivation.

Isaac D. Poorman owns 240 acres on sections 29 and 32, and has been a resident of Union town since 1861. He is the eldest son of Jacob N. and Eliza (Babb) Poorman, and was born in Delaware Co., Ind., Sept., 30, 1843. His early life was spent at school and on the farm, and in 1861 lie accompanied his parents to Vernon countJ^ On Nov. 21, 1S63, he enlisted in the 2d Wisconsin Cavalry, company G, and served under Gen. Sherman and Maj.-Gen. Thomas nntil the close of the war. Ho was discharged in December, 1S65, and in i867 was married to Mary A. Smith, also a native of Delaware Co., In<l. He then settled on section 32, where he is engaged in raising grain, especially wheat and clover, and is also deeply interested in the improvement of the stock in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Poorman are the parents of five children - Rosetta May, Almeda, Eliza Bird and Alma Rcrtlia, twins, and Brud.

Jacob N. Poorman is a native of the "Keystone State," and came to Wisconsin in 1861. He located a quarter section of land in this town, forty acres of which are located on sections 21, 22,27 and 28 respectively. He was born in Franklin Co.,Penn., in November, 1821. His father, Daniel Poorman, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and died in 1824. When Jacob was but seven years of age his mother removed to Montgomery Co., Ohio, and in 18-10 settled in Delaware Co., Ind. He was there married in 1841 to Eliza Babb, a native of Clinton t'o., Ohio. He bought a piece of land in Delaware county, and cleared up a farm, living tlieie until 1861. His mother hail died in Indiana aboul 1841. Mr. and Mrs. Poorman have been blessed with thirteen children, nine of whom are living - Mary S., Isaac D., Barbara E., Susan, Martha J., Laura E., Sarah C, Eli S., Louisa H., William II. and Benjamin F., (twins), Margaret C. and Jacob L. Sarah C. was born Nov. 9, 1850, aiid'died Aug. 26, 1851. Margaret C. was born Nov. 24, 1860, and died April V, 1861. Martha J. was born March 4, 1848, and died Oct. i:^, 1868. Louisa B. was born Sept. 3, 1854, and died Aug. 23, 1877. Mrs. Poorman deparied this life Aug. 7, 1883.

spent alternately at school and on the farm. He was married in 1859 to Martha A. Berry, born in Deertield township, Morgan county, Feb. 13, 1842. Thev remained in their native county until 1861, when they came to Vernon county, and Mr. McKitrick purchased land on sections 17 and 1^^, building- a log cabin on the former section. He lived in that primitive abode until 1879, when he erected on section 18 his present residence. He has made extensive improvements on his land, and now owns one of the best farms in the town. Mrs. McKitrick died June 12, 1883, leaving six children - Irwin E., Clarence W., Elva May, Bertrand Dupree, Laura E. and Stella J.

David Sabin settled on his present farm in 1861. He came from Richland county, and purchased land on sections 27 and 28, and immediately commenced to clear a farm. He built a good two story hewed log house, which he still occupies. He was born in Washington Co., Penn., Sept. 17, 1831. When he was eight years old his parents removed to Ohio and settled in Knox county, where his mother died four years later. When he was fourteen years old his father removed to Indiana and settled in Blackford county, where he soon after broke u]) housekeeping, and David then started out for himself. He found employment among the farmers of Delaware county, where he grew to manhood. He was there married in January, 1854, to Matilda Babb, who was born in Clinton Co., Ohio He bought a farm there, on which they lived until 1858, when he sold and came to Wisconsin and settled in Richland county. He bought land on Mill creek, built a log house and remained there until 1861, when he soldand came to Bad Ax county, as before stated. His farm now contains 160 acres. They have nine children - William C, John B., Emma II., Eli D., Oliver C, Anna, Daniel A., Mary E., Rose B. and Alia A. Annie was born May 14, 1861, and died Oct 16, 1878.

wlien he bought it was covered with timber. He has built a good log house and has cleared quite a large tract. He is a native of this State, born in Calumet county, Marcli 31, 1848. His father, whose name was Nicholas V., was born in Oneida Co., N. Y. He settled in Calumet county in 1844 and was one of the first settlers in that county. He then bought land in the town of Chilton, cleared a farm and now makes that his home. The subject of our sketch was there reared to manhood, receiving his education in the district schools. He made his home tliere with liis parents until 1870, when lie came to Vernon county. He was married in January, 1871, to Mary J., daughter of James Mc- Coy. Three children have blessed this union - Lorenzo Franklin, Walter and Charles. His cousin, Henry A., son of Lorenzo F. Chesbro, Sr., was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., March .'5, ' 1800. He attended school there until seventeen years of age, then went to Pennsylvania with his parents and subsequently lived with them in Kansas and Missouri. He came to Vernon county in 1883 and hxs since made his home with his cousin, Lorenzo F. Chesbro.

Philip F. Steinmetz, a member of the board of supervisors, has resided here since 1875. He was born in Union Co., Penn., March 7, 1841. He received a fair education in the district schools, supplemented with a-course of study at the Lewisburg University. He enlisted Aug. 20, 1862, in company E, 142d regiment, Pennsvlvania Volunteers, and was severely wounded at the battle -of Fredericksburg, Dec. 13, 1862. He was sent to the hospital and discharged from the service March 9, 1863, on account of disability. He returned to Pennsylvania and in 1864 located in Sandusky Co., Ohio, and from thence to Seneca county, the same State, where he was married in 1868 to Dorotha Saloma Krauss. They remained in Seneca county until 1875, when they came to Vernon county and Mr. Steinmetz purchased the northeast quarter of section I'-', town of Union. The land was covered v/itb a heavy growth of timber, and he has cleared several acres, set out an orchard of apple trees, whicli have commenced bearing, also paid some attention to grapes and other small fruit. Mr. and Mrs. Steinmetz are the parents of seven living children - .Mary E., John A., Charles H., Samuel E., William P., Emory A. and Oscar E.

George W. Hamilton settled in this town in 1878. He purchased timber land on sections 19 and 20 and began to clear a farm. He ^as born in Philadelphia, Penn., June 2, 1826, his father having died one month previous. When nine months old he suffered the loss of his best earthly friend, his mother, and was taken in charge by an aunt, who reared him to manhood. He was sent to the city schools and when ten years of age accompanied his aunt to Delaware Co., Penn., where he reached maturity. At tlie age of si-fteen he commenced serving a four j^ears' apprenticeship at the carpenter trade. When twenty years of age he went to Baltimore, and there worked at his trade until 1846, when he enlisted on board a manof-svar in the service of the United States. At the e.x;pi ration of his service he returned to Baltimore and resumed work at his trade. In 1850 he went to Ironton, Lawrence Co., Ohio, and opened a store, also driving a w.agon and bartering groceries for produce. In 1861 he engaged in the United States' service as wagon-master and served in the same capacity in West Virginia for two years. He then returned to Ironton and resumed business. In 1864 he enlisted in the 173d regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry, company K, and was mustered in as commissary sergeant. He was promoted to a second lieutenacy, serving in company A until July, 1865. when he was discharged and returned to Ohio and settled in Gallia county on land he liad purchased in 1864. He resumed his trade and also engaged in farming until 1878, when he came to Union town, and now owns 320 acres of land, a large portion of which is cleared. He was married May 26, 1852, to Mrs. .Mary A. (Van Horn) Dearnion, widowed wife of George W. Dearmon, born in Ohio. They have two adopted sons - George W. Parnett and Charlie H. Eaknian. Mrs. Hamilton had five childi'en hy her former husband, three of whom are living - John P., Nancy and William A.